We had absolute tremendous support from all of our family and friends. Donations to help pay for the trip, prayers, encouraging words, and even a group of "Andrea's Army" who were at the airport at 4:30 in the morning to wish me well before the flight! Jamie and I continue to be amazed at how much love and support we have received throughout this journey. Now we're brainstorming ways to say "Thank You" and to "Pay Forward" the generosity, love, encouragement, and support we have received.
The trip to Houston was just as wonderful as I had hoped it would be. The doctors and nurses were amazing, and acted like I was the only patient they had that day when they came in the room. They answered all of my questions, helped me fully understand my cancer and the prognosis of it. They also helped put together a plan of what the next few months and years should include, in order to help do everything possible to keep this cancer from returning.
So...as you already know...at this point, I can officially be considered CANCER FREE! I am now a survivor instead of a fighter. Yes, cancer will always be a part of my life- yes I will continue to have follow up exams and screenings, but at this point, the battle is over and I came out VICTORIOUS! Yahoo!
So, what now? Well, there are 4 events that are taking place in the next 6 months. First, I had a CT scan this past week to recheck the "cysts" that were seen on my kidneys back in February 2012 - Just to make sure they are stable and nothing to worry about. Next, I will be having surgery later this month to have a complete hysterectomy (ovaries included). I also am moving my care to a different oncologist. I absolutely MUST have confidence in the person in charge of staying on top of this cancer thing. Finally, I will be having a mastectomy on the other side, as well as reconstruction sometime later this summer. I have to allow my skin to heal from all of the radiation treatments before they do any reconstructive type surgery.
Other than that, I now can focus on getting healthy, exercising, losing weight, paying attention to any symptoms that last longer than usual, and always be aware of any lumps, bumps, or changes. Pretty much- I can now focus on living and enjoying life.
It's a great feeling. It's a freeing feeling. And I'm looking forward to many posts this year that don't even include the word CANCER.
2 comments:
My friend Allyson Stephens is a patient at M.D. Anderson, and has been for years, she is my college friend I posted her link on FB back in October. She was first diagnoised when her sons were around 2 and 4. She has also had both the surgeries you are facing and I think they really have made a difference. Her sons are both in college now and she had ups and downs but enjoys life to the fullest. You both have so much in common, just like you her story has touched so many people, and she is a fighter! :)
Hi Andrea!
I met your sister Kari online a few years back and have been following and praying for your successful (YAY!) battle with cancer both through her and on your blog.
I'm SO happy to see that you are CANCER FREE! I'll continue to keep you and your precious family in my prayers for years to come!
Natalie
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